SA Rugby’s high-performance GM David Wessels says Ireland should get a loyalty card after Ulster snapped up another South African youngster.
Reacting on X to the latest academy intake in Belfast, Wessels quipped: “We must get the @IRFURugby a Loyalty Shopper Rewards card!”
His comment followed confirmation that Ulster have added two Irish-qualified teenagers to their academy ranks – including Cape Town-born Rynard Gordon.
The 18-year-old, who attended Bishops, is a versatile back capable of playing at centre or across the back three. He represented Bishops at various age-group levels and featured for their 1st XV last season before heading north.
Gordon recently completed a trial period and has already played for Ulster U19. The province announced that he joins their academy as a first-year player alongside Australian-born lock Paddy Woods.
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“We are delighted to welcome both Paddy and Rynard into our academy system,” said Ulster academy manager Gavin Hogg.
“Paddy is a promising young lock with good physical presence, and Rynard is an exciting backline player with the ability to beat defenders.
“Both players have shown us their clear potential, and we are pleased to be welcoming them into the academy to progress.
“With both being Irish-qualified through family, we hope that we can help both players develop in our academy programme and become ones for the future.”
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Earlier this year, former Rondebosch and SA U18 flank Josh Neill linked up with Leinster’s academy and has since represented Ireland U20.
